UNC cancelled the proposed release of 14 Kuki detainees following widespread protests and an emergency shutdown across Naga-inhabited areas demanding the release of six abducted Nagas.
The United Naga Council (UNC) on Monday cancelled the proposed release of 14 Kuki detainees that had earlier been scheduled for 2 pm, following widespread opposition from Naga organisations and public protests across several Naga-inhabited areas of Manipur.
The decision came hours after the apex Naga body had announced that the detainees, who were being held under the custody of the Naga Village Guard–Northern Command, would be released as a humanitarian gesture rooted in Naga customary values, Christian principles and respect for human rights.
In a declaration issued from its headquarters in Senapati at around 6 pm, the UNC said the proposed release stood cancelled in view of prevailing public sentiment.
“Considering the prevailing sentiments of the Naga public, the proposed release of the 14 Kuki detainees, earlier scheduled at 2.00 PM on June 1, 2026, hereby stands canceled,” the declaration signed by UNC president Ng. Lorho stated.
The cancellation came amid escalating protests against the proposed release and growing demands for the safe return of six abducted Naga civilians whose whereabouts remain unknown.
Earlier in the day, a statement attributed to the UNC had indicated that the release of the 14 detainees was being considered following appeals from Naga churches, the global Baptist community, tribal bodies and civil society organisations. The statement also cited assurances from the Union Home Ministry and the Manipur Government regarding efforts to trace the six abducted Naga civilians, secure the release of remaining hostages, identify those responsible for the abductions and enforce the Suspension of Operations (SoO) ground rules.
The UNC had also referred to appeals made by several leaders, including National People's Party president Conrad K. Sangma, for the unconditional release of hostages. It said the move was intended as a conscious choice for peace and humanity while reiterating its demand for the immediate and safe release of the six abducted Naga civilians.
However, the proposal triggered strong opposition from several Naga organisations, particularly in the Zeliangrong region.
The Joint Tribes Council, Manipur (JTCM), reacted sharply by declaring a total emergency shutdown across areas inhabited by the Inpui, Liangmai, Rongmei and Zeme communities. The shutdown was announced with immediate effect and was stated to remain in force until the six abducted Naga civilians are safely returned and justice is delivered.
In a statement, the JTCM alleged that the six civilians were abducted on May 13 by refugees from Leilon Vaiphei village acting in collusion with illegal Kuki militants. The organisation expressed dissatisfaction over what it described as the failure of authorities to secure the release of the abducted individuals despite the passage of nearly three weeks.
The council argued that the proposed release of the 14 Kuki detainees without any confirmation regarding the safety or whereabouts of the six abducted Nagas amounted to a betrayal of justice and posed a threat to Naga security.
The shutdown affected large parts of the Zeliangrong region, with the JTCM directing the suspension of business establishments, educational institutions, government and private offices, banking services and public transport. Public gatherings and movements were also discouraged under the shutdown order.
The protest gained visible momentum at Kanglatongbi along National Highway-2, where a large number of demonstrators gathered to oppose the proposed release. Protesters reportedly burned tyres on the highway and blocked vehicular movement for several hours.
Demonstrators raised slogans including “We condemn UNC decision”, “We condemn government delay”, “We condemn selective decision of the Government of India”, and “Release our six Naga brothers”.
Participants in the agitation argued that releasing the Kuki detainees before securing the release of the six abducted Nagas was unacceptable. They alleged that the Government had failed to act decisively in tracing the missing civilians while prioritising the release of the detainees.
Wiriangjinliu, an office-bearer of the Nga Koubru Range Naga Women’s Union, said during the protest that the whereabouts of the six abducted Nagas remained unknown and questioned efforts to release the Kuki detainees before those responsible for the alleged abductions were identified and arrested.
She warned that road blockade protests would continue if authorities proceeded with the release without addressing the concerns of the Naga community.
Adding to the pressure, the Coordination Committee of Longmai Area formally endorsed the emergency shutdown called by the JTCM.
In its statement, the committee said it shared concerns over the fate of the six abducted civilians and viewed the proposed release of the Kuki detainees before securing the release of the Nagas as deeply problematic.
The committee urged residents throughout the Zeliangrong region, including areas along National Highway-2, to observe the shutdown and support the demand for the safe return of the abducted civilians.
The unfolding developments highlight the growing tensions surrounding the hostage crisis and the competing demands emerging from different communities amid efforts to secure the release of all those being held.
While the UNC's initial proposal had been presented as a humanitarian initiative intended to foster peace and goodwill, the strong public backlash ultimately forced the organisation to withdraw the plan.
The cancellation of the proposed release underscores the heightened emotions surrounding the abduction case and reflects the pressure being faced by Naga civil society organisations as they navigate demands for justice, accountability and the safe return of the six missing civilians.
As of Monday evening, there was no indication of when or whether discussions regarding the release of the 14 Kuki detainees would resume. Meanwhile, the shutdown continued in several areas as Naga organisations pressed authorities to intensify efforts to locate and secure the release of the six abducted civilians.
